Business Details
49 Years
experience
Empowering Students with Learning Differences in Durham, NC
Founded in 1977, Hill Center has dedicated itself to transforming students with learning differences into confident, independent learners. Our mission is rooted in providing research-based, culturally relevant programs that address the unique needs of students with learning differences, attention challenges, and executive function difficulties. Through our school, summer, and tutoring programs, we serve students in grades K-12, offering individualized instruction in reading, writing, math, and executive function skills. Our programs emphasize academic growth, self-advocacy, and social-emotional development, ensuring students are equipped to succeed in school and life. For educators, we provide virtual and in-person professional development opportunities, equipping teachers with strategies to address learning disabilities and ADHD.Families receive counseling services, postsecondary planning, and access to Hill Connect, a free series of resources and support. Accredited by the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) and approved by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, we maintain rigorous standards in all our programs. Our commitment to Furthering Access promotes inclusiveness and equitable practices across all operations. We partner with local schools and nonprofits to extend our reach and impact. With over 45 years of experience, we combine a growth mindset with proven strategies to empower students, teachers, and families. Our core values emphasize lifelong learning, empowerment, collaboration, and care, driving our efforts to make a lasting difference in the lives of students and educators.
Services
School Programs
Summer Tutoring
Professional Development
Family Support
Community Engagement
Details
- Year established: 1977
Highlights and features
- 45+ years of experience in supporting students with learning differences.
- Research-based programs accredited by nationally recognized organizations.
- Certified educators trained in multisensory instruction and executive function strategies.
- Community partnerships that expand access to underserved populations.
- Financial aid and scholarship programs ensure equitable access to services.
Associations and certifications
- Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS)
- North Carolina Department of Public Instruction
- International Multisensory Structured Language Education Council (IMSLEC)
- International Dyslexia Association (IDA)
What people say
Transformative impact on students
Empowering educators
Strong community partnerships
Dedicated, certified staff
Effective research-based programs
Services
School Programs
Hill offers half-day school programs for students in grades K-12 with learning differences. Our curriculum focuses on reading, writing, math, and executive function skills. Individualized instruction ensures students develop academic and social-emotional competencies for long-term success.
Summer Tutoring
Five weeks of daily instruction in reading, writing, and math for rising grades 1-8. Small-group settings allow personalized attention. Programs aim to prevent learning loss and build confidence through structured, research-based methods tailored to each student's needs.
Professional Development
Virtual and in-person workshops for educators on science of reading, executive function, and multisensory instruction. Accredited by IMSLEC and IDA, these programs equip teachers with evidence-based strategies to support students with learning differences and ADHD.
Family Support
Counseling services, postsecondary planning, and Hill Connect resources help families advocate for children with learning differences. Workshops and partnerships with local organizations provide tools to support academic and emotional growth at home and school.
Community Engagement
Partnerships with schools and nonprofits expand access to underserved communities. Initiatives include awareness campaigns, collaborative program development, and free educational events to reduce stigma and promote equitable opportunities for students with learning challenges.
People
Bryan Brander
Executive Director & Head of School
Bryan Brander leads Hill Center with a focus on expanding access to equitable education. He oversees strategic initiatives and partnerships to support students with learning differences across the Triangle region.
Michelle Orvis
Chief of Staff
Michelle Orvis manages operational strategy and community relations at Hill. She coordinates partnerships and programs to ensure alignment with the organization's mission of empowering students and educators.
Addie Healy
Faculty Member
Addie Healy is a certified educator at Hill who specializes in multisensory math instruction. She implements research-backed methods to enhance student engagement and academic outcomes in mathematics.
Luke Smith
Executive Director, El Futuro
Luke Smith collaborates with Hill to support Latino families of children with learning differences. He advocates for culturally relevant resources and equitable access to educational services.
Stan Farrington
Principal, Partnership Academy High School
Stan Farrington partners with Hill to implement literacy intervention programs. He focuses on improving academic outcomes and self-esteem for students through targeted reading support.
Questions
What services does Hill Learning Center offer?
We provide school programs, summer tutoring, professional development for educators, family support, and community engagement initiatives for students with learning differences.
Is Hill Learning Center accredited?
Yes, we are accredited by the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) and approved by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction.
How can families access Hill's programs?
Families can apply for enrollment through our website or contact us directly for financial aid and scholarship opportunities.
Do you offer professional development for teachers?
Yes, we provide virtual and in-person training for educators on strategies for teaching students with learning differences and ADHD.
What areas does Hill serve?
We primarily serve the Triangle Region of North Carolina, including Durham, Raleigh, and Chapel Hill.
How does Hill support underserved communities?
We partner with local schools and nonprofits to co-develop programs and reduce barriers to enrollment for underserved families.
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